Six men's ice hockey players lauded at annual year-end banquet

COLCHESTER, Vt. - The Saint Michael's College men's ice hockey team held its annual year-end banquet on April 12 in Nicolle Hall, where fifth-year head coach Chris Davidson '99 announced the squad's award winners.

Junior captain Josh Geary (Wellesley, Mass./Phillips Andover Academy) earned Most Valuable Player honors and the team's John Gurskis '98 Award as the program's leading scorer. "In your MVP, you want him to be a leader, able to succeed and make everyone around them better, and Josh did just that," said Davidson. "He was asked to fulfill a role he was not accustomed to, and he went above and beyond to be the best he could. As a scorer, Josh has come a long way. In his first two years he scored 23 points, but this season he blossomed for 20 points in 26 games. His determination can only help him keep improving and help the team."

Junior Dan Evarts (Hinesburg, Vt./Green Mountain Glades), an assistant captain, drew the Ice Knight Award, which is presented to a player who displays commitment and leadership on and off the ice. "As a junior and being named assistant captain, Dan Evarts jumped into his role with both feet," said the coach. "He was a leader off the ice in the community, classroom, weight room, locker room and, of course, on the ice. Dan embraced everything you want in your Ice Knight Award winner."

Freshman Mark Higgins (Plainville, Mass./Bridgewater Bandits) was the Rookie of the Year. "Mark was one of our most consistent players this season," said Davidson. "Whether it was 5-on-5 or special teams, we knew we could count on him. I am truly looking forward to the rest of his career."

Following his first season wearing Purple and Gold, junior Connor Logan (Shelburne, Vt./Green Mountain Glades) was named Defensive Player of the Year. "Connor is a strong skater, has a solid work ethic, and is a shot-blocking machine," said the coach. "We knew late in a game we were going to get his very best."

The Unsung Hero honor went to junior Tim McAuliffe (North Reading, Mass./Vermont Academy). "Tim McAuliffe did everything for us this year," said Davidson. "He scored timely goals and won some big face-offs late in games. He did everything we asked and loved every moment, and this is why Tim deserves this award."

Junior goaltender Eric McGuirk (Rehoboth, Mass./Bridgewater Bandits) was lauded as the program's Most Improved Player. "Last season, Eric backed up every game," said the coach. "This year, with his work ethic and desire to improve, he played in 10 games and started our play-off game, where he won all-tournament honors for the NE-10 play-offs. We cannot wait to see where he takes his career."